Introduction: A Battle Between Tradition and Transformation

The Toyota 4Runner has long been a symbol of rugged dependability, blending hardcore off-road ability with surprising everyday comfort. Honda’s new Passport TrailSport, however, aims to redefine what an everyday SUV can do when the pavement ends. The question is can it keep up with the legendary 4Runner?

Toyota 4Runner: The Off-Roading Legend

The Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road sits in a unique space. It’s not as wild as a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco, but it delivers nearly the same level of off-road performance with far more reliability and comfort. Built on a body-on-frame chassis derived from the Tacoma, it feels like a truck but in a charming way that off-road purists love.

For 2025, Toyota upgraded everything. The old V6 is gone, replaced by a turbocharged inline-four with 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. Even better, a hybrid option delivers 326 hp and 465 lb-ft, making the TRD Off-Road surprisingly quick for its size 0-60 mph in under 7 seconds. The gearbox is now an 8-speed, replacing the outdated 5-speed, giving the SUV modern drivability.

Inside, Toyota’s overhaul shines. A 14-inch touchscreen dominates the dash, with wireless CarPlay, wireless charging, and durable controls. The cabin feels built to last for decades, another reason why the 4Runner remains beloved.

Honda Passport TrailSport: The Up-and-Comer

If the 4Runner is an off-roader with road manners, the Passport TrailSport is a road SUV with off-road ambition. Built on a unibody chassis, it behaves more like a sedan in daily driving, offering smoother handling and refinement.

But Honda didn’t just add looks the TrailSport packs real upgrades. With a unique suspension tune, 8.3 inches of ground clearance, and a 23-degree approach angle, it can take on serious trails. Skid plates protect key components, and the all-terrain tires are actually more aggressive than those on the 4Runner.

Honda also introduces useful tech: hill descent control (a first for the brand) and multiple camera views for tackling tough spots. It’s no poser the TrailSport truly improves the Passport’s off-road credibility.

Head-to-Head: Off-Road Test at NORA

At the Northeast Off-Road Driving School in New York, both SUVs faced mud, rocks, and steep inclines. The Toyota 4Runner excelled with its low-range gearing, locking rear differential, and 9.1 inches of clearance. It crawled over obstacles with ease, shrugging off terrain that stops most SUVs cold. Its only weakness? Side steps that limited extreme rock crawling.

The Honda Passport TrailSport impressed but struggled under pressure. With no low range or locking differential, it relied heavily on its torque-vectoring AWD and aggressive tires. Surprisingly, it never got stuck, but progress was slower, louder, and far more stressful. Skid plates scraped rocks often, and lack of ground clearance held it back from tougher challenges.

Everyday Driving: Comfort vs. Capability

The 4Runner delivers incredible off-road power but still feels like a truck on the road. Meanwhile, the Passport TrailSport shines in daily life with smoother V6 power, a luxe cabin, and better comfort on highways or city streets. For soft off-roading, like dirt roads or camping trails, the Honda is more than capable and more affordable ($49,900 vs. Toyota’s $53,440).

Final Verdict

If your adventures include real rock crawling, river fording, and extreme terrain, the Toyota 4Runner is the undisputed choice. But if you want a versatile SUV that blends comfort with light trail ability, the Honda Passport TrailSport offers a smart, more comfortable alternative. It won’t dethrone the 4Runner, but it does transform what people can expect from a Honda SUV.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What makes the Toyota 4Runner stand out?

The 4Runner’s body-on-frame design, locking differentials, low-range gearing, and 9.1 inches of ground clearance give it unmatched off-road strength. It also offers a modern hybrid powertrain with excellent torque.

Q2: How capable is the Honda Passport TrailSport off-road?

While not at 4Runner’s level, the TrailSport offers real upgrades like 8.3 inches of clearance, all-terrain tires, skid plates, and hill descent control. It handles soft to moderate off-road trails confidently.

Q3: Which SUV is more comfortable for daily driving?

The Honda Passport TrailSport. Its unibody chassis and V6 engine deliver smoother performance on highways and city roads. The 4Runner is still truck-like, though more refined than past versions.

Q4: What are the prices for both SUVs?

The Honda Passport TrailSport starts at around $49,900, while the Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road begins at about $53,440.

Q5: Which SUV should I buy if I only do light off-roading?

The Honda Passport TrailSport. It’s cheaper, more comfortable, and more refined for daily life while still handling dirt roads, camping trails, and mild adventures with ease.